Rapid progression from croup to complete lung collapse: a case report of central airway obstruction by mucopurulent cast in influenza A (H3N2) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa coinfection in a toddler - Summary - MDSpire

Rapid progression from croup to complete lung collapse: a case report of central airway obstruction by mucopurulent cast in influenza A (H3N2) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa coinfection in a toddler

  • By

  • Xiumin Zhang

  • Fujing Xie

  • Jingcai Wang

  • Jing Zhao

  • Cuicui Guo

  • June 2, 2026

  • 0 min

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Objective:

To report a case of a toddler with croup who experienced respiratory distress due to co-infection with influenza A and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, leading to total lung collapse.

Key Findings:
  • The patient had a rapid progression to complete left lung atelectasis due to a mucopurulent cast.
  • Co-infection with influenza A (H3N2) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa was confirmed.
  • The patient was discharged on day 9 without recurrence of symptoms.
Interpretation:

This case highlights the potential for severe complications in pediatric patients with croup when co-infected with influenza A and Pseudomonas aeruginosa.

Limitations:
  • The case is a single report and may not represent broader epidemiological trends.
  • Limited data on the incidence of Pseudomonas aeruginosa co-infection in non-CF pediatric populations.
Conclusion:

The case underscores the importance of considering bacterial co-infections in pediatric patients presenting with severe respiratory symptoms.

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